I just had the pleasure of returning from a wonderful trip to Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico to perform Mahler's First Symphony with the UANL Symphony Orchestra. It was truly a pleasure to play with such fine musicians and genuine people, and with such an enthusiastic and passionate conductor with Maestro Jesus Medina. It was a wonderful experience, and I hope to return again soon! One of my concerns before traveling to Mexico was my extremely limited Spanish vocabulary. I have learned German for travels and performing in Austria, and am fluent in French (and performed with a Francophone orchestra this past summer), so in many ways the idea of rehearsing in a foreign language was not an unfamiliar one. However, I learned the basics and enough to get by (rehearsal numbers, tempi, etc), and with every direction given, took it as an opportunity to pick up as much as possible. Regardless of the language, a great conductor can show exactly what he needs with few words. And with a willing temperament, one can pick up a great deal in a short period of time! In addition, the warmth and friendliness of everyone I meet on this trip was a true pleasure - no matter the language spoken, we were united by a common love of music, and a love of laughter, friendship and good life. This opportunity was a great reminder to me of what essentials we truly need at the end of the day, and I came back (though to much ice and storms!) quite refreshed, and with great inspiration to live a positive live and to remember to love what I do and enjoy every chance I get to share it with the world.